Foldable display

ABSTRACT

A foldable display is disclosed. In one aspect, the foldable display includes a display panel including: a plurality of flat regions and a folding region interposed between the flat regions. Each of the flat regions includes a fixed region and a semi-fixed region interposed between the fixed region and the folding region. The foldable display also includes a plurality of substrates respectively attached to the flat regions and a plurality of fixed adhesive members respectively interposed between the fixed regions and the substrates. The fixed adhesive members respectively attach the substrates to the fixed regions. The foldable display further includes a plurality of semi-fixed adhesive members respectively interposed between the semi-fixed regions and the substrates. The semi-fixed adhesive members are configured to respectively attach/detach the semi-fixed adhesive regions to/from the substrates based on the degree to which the display panel is folded.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This U.S. non-provisional patent application is a continuation of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 14/935,194, filed Nov. 6, 2015, which claimspriority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 of Korean Patent Application No.10-2015-0008752, filed on Jan. 19, 2015, the entire contents of whichare hereby incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND

Field

The present disclosure generally relates to a display device, and moreparticularly, to a foldable or flexible display device.

Description of the Related Technology

Electronic devices that display images, such as smart phones, digitalcameras, notebook computers, navigation units, and televisions, includedisplay panels for displaying images.

Thin and lightweight flat display panels are widely used for imagedisplay. Many types of flat display panels exist, including liquidcrystal display (LCD) panels, organic light-emitting diode (OLED)display panels, plasma display panels (PDPs), electrophoretic display(EPD) panels, and the like.

Additionally, foldable displays, which can be folded for portability andunfolded to increase the viewing area, are being developed.

SUMMARY OF CERTAIN INVENTIVE ASPECTS

One inventive aspect is a foldable display having an improvedreliability and durability.

Another aspect is a foldable display including: a display panelincluding a plurality of non-folding regions and a folding regioninterposed between the non-folding regions, the non-folding regions eachincluding a fixed region and a semi-fixed region defined between thefixed region and the folding region; a plurality of substratescorrespondingly provided to the non-folding regions, respectively; afixed adhesive member interposed between the fixed region and thesubstrates, and attaching the substrates to the fixed region; and asemi-fixed adhesive member interposed between the semi-fixed region andthe substrates, and attaches/detaches the semi-fixed region to/from thesubstrates according to a folded degree of the display panel.

In some embodiments, when the display panel is not folded, thesemi-fixed adhesive member can attach the semi-fixed region to thesubstrates, and when the display panel is folded, at least a portion ofthe semi-fixed region can be detached from the substrates.

In other embodiments, when the display panel is folded, the semi-fixedadhesive member can maintain a configuration of being attached to thesubstrate and can be detached from the semi-fixed region.

In still other embodiments, when the display panel is folded, thesemi-fixed adhesive member can maintain a configuration of beingattached to the semi-fixed region and can be detached from thesubstrate.

In even other embodiments, when the display panel is folded, outersurfaces of the non-folded regions can face each other.

In yet other embodiments, at least a portion of the semi-fixed adhesivemember can be detached from the substrates when a folding angle definedby upper surfaces of the substrates is less than an attachment angle.

In further embodiments, when the folding angle is less than theattachment angle, stress applied to the display panel can be greaterthan a stress limit which generates a crack to the display panel.

In still further embodiments, the fixed adhesive member can have firstadhesive force, and the semi-fixed adhesive member can have secondadhesive force less than the first adhesive force.

In even further embodiments, the first adhesive force can be about 2,000to about 5,000 gf/mm, and the second adhesive force can be about 500 toabout 1,000 gf/mm.

In yet further embodiments, the fixed adhesive member can comprise anacryl-based adhesive material, and the semi-fixed adhesive member cancomprise a silicon-based adhesive material.

Another aspect is a foldable display includes a display panel includinga plurality of non-folding regions and a folding region interposedbetween the non-folding regions, the non-folding regions each includinga fixed region and a semi-fixed region defined between the fixed regionand the folding region, and having a first flexibility; a plurality ofsubstrates correspondingly provided to the non-folding regions,receptively; a fixed adhesive member interposed between the fixed regionand the substrates, and attaches the substrates to the fixed regions; astress relief part interposed between the semi-fixed region and theplurality of substrates, and having a second flexibility less than thefirst flexibility; and an auxiliary adhesive members including an upperauxiliary adhesive member interposed between the stress relief part andthe semi-fixed region, and attaches the stress relief part to thesemi-fixed region and a lower auxiliary adhesive member interposedbetween the stress relief part and the substrates, and attaches thestress relief part to the substrates.

In some embodiments, the substrates can include a groove recessed towardthe lower surface of the substrate to correspond to the semi-fixedregion, and the stress relief part can be arranged in the groove.

In other embodiments, a first distance from the lower surface of thesubstrates opposite the display panel to a lower surface of the fixedregion can be substantially equal to a distance from the lower surfaceof the substrates to a lower surface of the semi-fixed region.

Another aspect is a foldable display comprising a display panel,comprising: a plurality of flat regions, and a folding region interposedbetween the flat regions, wherein each of the flat regions comprises: afixed region, and a semi-fixed region interposed between the fixedregion and the folding region; a plurality of substrates respectivelyattached to the flat regions; a plurality of fixed adhesive membersrespectively interposed between the fixed regions and the substrates,wherein the fixed adhesive members respectively attach the substrates tothe fixed regions; and a plurality of semi-fixed adhesive membersrespectively interposed between the semi-fixed regions and thesubstrates, wherein the semi-fixed adhesive members are configured torespectively attach/detach the semi-fixed adhesive regions to/from thesubstrates based on the degree to which the display panel is folded.

In exemplary embodiments, when the display panel is in an unfoldedconfiguration, the semi-fixed regions are respectively attached to thesubstrates by means of the semi-fixed adhesive members, and when thedisplay panel is in a folded configuration, at least a portion of eachof the semi-fixed regions is respectively detached from thecorresponding substrate.

In exemplary embodiments, when the display panel is in the foldedconfiguration, each of the semi-fixed adhesive members is attached tothe corresponding substrate and is detached from the correspondingsemi-fixed region.

In exemplary embodiments, when the display panel is in the foldedconfiguration, each of the semi-fixed adhesive members is attached tothe corresponding semi-fixed region and is detached from thecorresponding substrate.

In exemplary embodiments, when the display panel is in the foldedconfiguration, outer surfaces of the flat regions face each other.

In exemplary embodiments, at least a portion of each of the semi-fixedadhesive members is detached from the corresponding substrate when afolding angle defined by the substrates is less than an attachmentangle.

In exemplary embodiments, when the folding angle is less than theattachment angle, a stress applied to the display panel is greater thana stress limit at which a crack is formed in the display panel.

In exemplary embodiments, each of the fixed adhesive member has a firstadhesive force, and wherein each of the semi-fixed adhesive members hasa second adhesive force that is less than the first adhesive force.

In exemplary embodiments, the first adhesive force is between about2,000 to about 5,000 gf/mm, and wherein the second adhesive force isbetween about 500 to about 1,000 gf/mm.

In exemplary embodiments, each of the fixed adhesive members is formedof an acryl-based adhesive material, and wherein each of the semi-fixedadhesive members is formed of a silicon-based adhesive material.

Another aspect is a foldable display, comprising a display panel,comprising: a plurality of flat regions, and a folding region interposedbetween the flat regions, wherein the display panel has a firstflexibility, and wherein each of the flat regions comprises: a fixedregion, and a semi-fixed region interposed between the fixed region andthe folding region; a plurality of substrates respectively attached tothe flat regions; a plurality of fixed adhesive members respectivelyinterposed between the fixed regions and the substrates, wherein thefixed adhesive members respectively attach the substrates to the fixedregions; a plurality of stress relief portions respectively interposedbetween the semi-fixed regions and the substrates, wherein each of thestress relief regions has a second flexibility that is less than thefirst flexibility; and a plurality of auxiliary adhesive members, eachcomprising: an upper auxiliary adhesive member interposed between thecorresponding stress relief portions and the corresponding semi-fixedregion, wherein the upper auxiliary adhesive member attach thecorresponding stress relief portion to the corresponding semi-fixedregion; and a lower auxiliary adhesive member interpose between thecorresponding stress relief portions and the corresponding substrate,wherein the lower auxiliary adhesive member attaches the correspondingstress relief portion to the corresponding substrate.

In exemplary embodiments, each of the substrates comprises a grooverecessed toward a lower surface of the substrate to correspond to thecorresponding semi-fixed region, and wherein the stress relief portionis arranged in the groove.

In exemplary embodiments, a first distance from the lower surface ofeach of the substrate opposite the display panel to a lower surface ofthe corresponding fixed region is substantially equal to a distance froma lower surface of each of the substrates to a lower surface of thecorresponding semi-fixed region.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings are included to provide a furtherunderstanding of the described technology, and are incorporated in andconstitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrateexemplary embodiments of the described technology and, together with thedescription, serve to explain principles of the described technology.

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a foldable display according to anembodiment.

FIG. 2 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of region A of FIG.1.

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a folded configuration ofthe foldable display shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of region B of FIG. 3.

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a folding angle of thefoldable display shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 is a graph illustrating the number of crack samples according tothe number of times the foldable display has been folded.

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a foldable display according toanother embodiment.

FIG. 8 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of region C of FIG. 7.

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a folded configuration ofthe foldable display shown in FIG. 8.

FIG. 10 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of region D of FIG. 9.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN INVENTIVE EMBODIMENTS

The described technology can be modified in several different forms, andspecific embodiments will be exemplified in the drawings and describedin detail. It is to be understood that the described technology is notlimited to the disclosed embodiments, and is intended to cover variousmodifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit andscope of the disclosure, including the appended claims.

Like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout. In thedrawings, the dimensions and sizes of each structure may be exaggerated,omitted, or schematically illustrated for the sake of clarity. It willbe understood that although the terms “first” and “second” may be usedherein to describe various elements, these elements should not belimited by these terms. Terms are only used to distinguish one componentfrom other components. For example, an element referred to as a firstelement in one embodiment can be referred to as a second element inanother embodiment. Terms in the singular form may include the pluralform unless otherwise intended.

In the specification, the meanings of the terms ‘include’ and/or‘comprise’ specifies the inclusion of the referenced property, numeral,step, operation, element or a combination thereof, but does not excludeother properties, numerals, steps, operations, elements or combinationsthereof. In addition, it will be understood that when a layer, a film, aregion, or a plate is referred to as being ‘on’ another layer, film,region, or plate, it can be directly on the other layer, film, region,or plate, or intervening layers, films, regions, or plates may also bepresent. On the contrary, it will be understood that when a layer, afilm, a region, or a plate is referred to as being ‘under’ anotherlayer, film, region, or plate, it can be directly under the other layer,film, region, or plate, or intervening layers, films, regions, or platesmay also be present. Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments will bedescribed in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a display apparatus or foldabledisplay according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is an enlargedcross-sectional view of region A of FIG.1.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the display apparatus 1000 includes asubstrate 100 and a display panel 200 formed on the substrate 100.

The display panel 200 can display image(s). The display panel 200 caninclude an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display panel, a liquidcrystal display (LCD) panel, a plasma display panel (PDP), anelectrophoretic display (EPD) panel, or the like.

The display panel 200 includes a lower plate 201 and an upper plate 202facing the lower plate 201. A light control layer 203 is interposedbetween the upper plate 202 and the lower plate 201. The lower plate 201and the upper plate 202 have one or more electrodes. The display panel200 adjusts an electric field applied to the light control layer 203through the electrodes to display an image.

The entire or at least a portion of the display panel 200 is flexible.In the current embodiment, the components constituting the display panel200 are formed of flexible materials. For example, the lower plate 201and the upper plate 202 can be formed of a material such as plastic.When an external force is applied to the display panel 200, the displaypanel 200 can be folded due to the external force.

Here, the meaning of the term “folding” is to be transformable from anoriginal shape into another shape, and includes being wound like a rollas well as being bent along one or more lines.

The display panel 200 can include a plurality of non-folding regions orflat regions and a folding region 230.

In an embodiment, the non-folding regions include a first non-foldingregion or first flat region 210 and a second non-folding region orsecond flat region 220. The folding region 230 is interposed between thefirst and second non-folding regions 210 and 220. That is, the firstnon-folding region 210, the folding region 230, and the secondnon-folding region 220 can be sequentially defined along a firstdirection D1.

The substrate 100, for example, includes first and second substrates 110and 120 which are formed of a rigid material such as glass. The firstsubstrate 110 is arranged in an area corresponding to the firstnon-folding region 210. The first substrate 110 supports the firstnon-folding region 210 so that the first non-folding region 210 cannotbe folded by external force.

The second substrate 120 is arranged in an area to correspond to thesecond non-folding region 220. The second substrate 120 can be arrangedapart from the first substrate 110 in the first direction D1 by aboutthe width of the folding region 230 along the direction D1. The secondsubstrate 120 supports the second non-folding region 220 so that thesecond non-folding region 220 cannot be folded by external force.

The first non-folding region 210 includes a first fixed region 211 and afirst semi-fixed region 212. The first semi-fixed region 212 is a regionadjacent to the folding region 230. More specifically, the firstsemi-fixed region 212 can be defined between the folding region 230 andthe first fixed region 211. That is, the first fixed region 211, thefirst semi-fixed region 212, and the folding region 230 can besequentially defined along a first direction D1.

The second non-folding region 220 includes a second fixed region 221 anda second semi-fixed region 222. The second semi-fixed region 222 is aregion adjacent to the folding region 230. More specifically, the secondsemi-fixed region 222 can be defined between the folding region 230 andthe second fixed region 221. That is, the second fixed region 221, thesecond semi-fixed region 222, and the folding region 230 can besequentially defined along a second direction D2 opposite the firstdirection D1.

The display apparatus 1000 further includes a fixed adhesive member anda semi-fixed adhesive member, which are interposed between the displaypanel 200 and the substrate 100. The fixed adhesive member includesfirst and second fixed adhesive members 310 and 320, and the semi-fixedadhesive member includes first and second semi-fixed adhesive members410 and 420.

The first and second fixed adhesive members 310 and 320 haveadhesiveness. More specifically, the first and second fixed adhesivemembers 310 and 320 have a first adhesive force. The first adhesiveforce can be, for example, about 2,000 to about 5,000 gf/mm. Also, in anembodiment, the first and the second fixed adhesive members 310 and 320may include an acryl-based adhesive material.

The first fixed adhesive member 310 is interposed between the firstfixed region 211 and the first substrate 110. The first fixed adhesivemember 310 attaches a lower surface of the first fixed region 211 to anupper surface of the first substrate 110. Accordingly, the first fixedregion 211 is fixed to the first substrate 110 and is not detached fromthe first substrate 110, even when the display apparatus 1000 is folded.

The second fixed adhesive member 320 is interposed between the secondfixed region 221 and the second substrate 120. The second fixed adhesivemember 320 attaches a lower surface of the second fixed region 221 to anupper surface of the second substrate 120. Accordingly, the second fixedregion 221 is fixed to the second substrate 120, and is not detachedfrom the second substrate 120, even when the display apparatus 1000 isfolded.

The first and second semi-fixed adhesive members 410 and 420 haveadhesiveness. More specifically, the first and second semi-fixedadhesive members 410 and 420 have a second adhesive force.

The second adhesive force is less than the first adhesive force. Thesecond adhesive force may be determined such that when the displayapparatus 1000 is folded, a stress greater than a stress limit of thedisplay panel 200 is not applied to the first and second semi-fixedregions 212 and 212. This will be described below with reference toFIGS. 4 and 5.

In an embodiment, the second adhesive force can be between about 500 toabout 1,000 gf/mm. Also, for example, the first and the secondsemi-fixed adhesive members 410 and 420 can include a silicon-basedadhesive material.

The first semi-fixed adhesive member 410 is interposed between the firstsemi-fixed region 212 and the first substrate 110. The first semi-fixedadhesive member 410 attaches a lower surface of the first semi-fixedregion 212 to an upper surface of the first substrate 110.

Here, the term “semi-fixed” refers to the ability to transition betweenbeing fixed or not fixed on the basis of an external force. In otherwords, when the display apparatus 1000 is not folded and remainsunfolded, no external force is applied to the first semi-fixed region212. Thus, when external force is not applied to the first semi-fixedregion 212, the first semi-fixed region 212 is attached and fixed to thefirst substrate 110 by means of the first semi-fixed adhesive member410.

On the other hand, when the display apparatus 1000 is folded, externalforce, which acts in a direction which separates the first semi-fixedregion 212 and the first substrate 110, is applied to the firstsemi-fixed region 212. When external force is applied to the firstsemi-fixed region 212, the first semi-fixed region 212 can be detachedfrom the first substrate 110. Also, when the external force is notapplied again, at least a portion of the first semi-fixed region 212 canbe attached and fixed to the first substrate 110 again by means of thefirst semi-fixed adhesive member 410.

The second semi-fixed adhesive member 420 is interposed between thesecond semi-fixed region 222 and the second substrate 120. The secondsemi-fixed adhesive member 420 allows a lower surface of the secondsemi-fixed region 222 to be semi-fixed to an upper surface of the secondsubstrate 120.

A first thickness Th1 of the first and second fixed adhesive members 310and 320 can be substantially the same as a second thickness Th2 of thefirst and second semi-fixed adhesive members 410 and 420.

Accordingly, the generation of a bent portion or a concavo-convexportion in the display panel 200 along a border of the first fixedadhesive member 310 and the first semi-fixed adhesive member 410 can beprevented.

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a folded configuration ofthe display apparatus shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 4 is an enlargedcross-sectional view of region B of FIG. 3.

Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the display apparatus 1000 can be foldedsuch that a first outer surface 2111 of the first fixed region 211 and asecond outer surface 2211 of the second fixed region 221 face eachother. In this configuration, since the first and second non-foldedregion 210 and 220 are respectively fixed to the first and secondsubstrate 110 and 120 which are rigid, they are not folded. On the otherhand, the folding region 230 is folded because it is not fixed to thefirst or second substrate 110 or 120.

In general, when an object is folded, stresses are concentrated at amiddle region between the folded region and non-folded region of theobject. As a result, the middle region may be the most damaged due tofolding. That is, when the display apparatus 1000 according to anembodiment is folded, stresses may be concentrated at the first andsecond semi-fixed regions 212 and 222.

However, the display apparatus 1000 according to an embodiment canrelieve the stresses concentrated at the first and second semi-fixedregions 212 and 222.

More specifically, since the first and second semi-fixed regions 212 and222 are semi-fixed to the first and second substrate 110 and 120 bymeans of the first and second semi-fixed adhesive members 410 and 420,damage to the first and second semi-fixed regions 212 and 222 can beprevented when the display apparatus 1000 is folded.

More specifically, the first and second semi-fixed adhesive members 410and 420 attach/detach the first and second semi-fixed regions 212 and222 to/from the first and second substrates 110 and 120 according to thefolded degree of the display panel 200.

As illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4, when the display apparatus 1000 isfolded, external force EF is generated in the first and secondsemi-fixed regions 212 and 222, and the external force EF acts as astress on the first and second semi-fixed regions 212 and 222. By meansof the external force EF, at least a portion of the semi-fixed adhesivemembers 410 and 420 is respectively detached from upper surfaces of thefirst and second substrates 110 and 120, and a gap G is defined betweenthe first and second semi-fixed adhesive members 410 and 420 and thefirst and second substrates 110 and 120. As a result, stresses generatedin the first and second semi-fixed regions 212 and 222 can be reduced.

The adhesive force between the first and second semi-fixed members 410and 420 and the first and second substrates 110 and 120 can be weakerthan the adhesive force between the first and second semi-fixed adhesivemembers 410 and 420 and the first and second semi-fixed regions 212 and222. Accordingly, the first and second semi-fixed adhesive members 410and 420 can maintain the configurations of being attached to the firstand second semi-fixed regions 212 and 222.

Also, embodiments are not limited thereto, and the adhesive forcebetween the first and second semi-fixed members 410 and 420 and thefirst and second substrates 110 and 120 can be stronger than theadhesive force between the first and second semi-fixed adhesive members410 and 420 and the first and second semi-fixed regions 212 and 222. Inthese embodiments, when the display apparatus 1000 is folded, the firstand second semi-fixed adhesive members 410 and 420 are detached from thefirst and second semi-fixed regions 212 and 222, and the first andsecond semi-fixed adhesive members 410 and 420 can maintain aconfiguration in which the first and second semi-fixed adhesive members410 and 420 are attached to the first and second substrates 110 and 120.

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a folding angle of thedisplay apparatus shown in FIG. 1.

Referring to FIG. 5, when the display apparatus 1000 is folded, afolding angle θ_(f) of the display apparatus 1000 can be defined. Thefolding angle θ_(f) can be defined as an angle between a first extendingline PL1 parallel to a first upper surface 111 of the first substrate110 and a second extending line PL2 parallel to a second upper surface121 of the second substrate 120.

In an embodiment, when the folding angle θ_(f) is less than apredetermined attachment angle, the first and second semi-fixed adhesivemembers 410 and 420 are respectively detached from the first and secondsubstrates 110 and 120. In other words, when the folding angle θ_(f) isgreater than the attachment angle, the first and second semi-fixedadhesive members 410 and 420 can maintain the configuration in which thefirst and second semi-fixed adhesive members 410 and 420 are attached tothe first and second substrates 110 and 120. This is because theexternal force (EF of FIG. 4) acting on the first and second semi-fixedadhesive members 410 and 420 is greater than an adhesive force betweenthe first and second semi-fixed adhesive members 410 and 420 and thefirst and second substrates 110 and 120, when the folding angle θ_(f)becomes less than the attachment angle.

Also, based on the folding angle θ_(f), the magnitudes of stresses inthe first and second semi-fixed regions 212 and 222 can be determined.For example, as the folding angle θ_(f) decreases, the magnitudes ofstresses generated in the first and second semi-fixed regions 212 and222 increase.

When the folding angle θ_(f) is greater than the attachment angle, thestresses generated in the display panel 200 are less than the stresslimit of the display panel 200. Also, when the folding angle θ_(f) isless than the attachment angle, the stresses generated in the displaypanel 200 are greater than the stress limit of the display panel 200.

Here, the stress limit is the maximum stress which does not generate acrack in the display panel 200, and when a stress greater than thestress limit is applied to the display panel 200, a crack may begenerated in the display panel 200. Thus, when the display apparatus1000 is folded by an angle less than the attachment angle, stress whichmay occur in the display panel 200 can be relieved by separating thefirst and second semi-fixed adhesive members 410 and 420 from the firstand second substrates 110 and 120. As a result, even when the displayapparatus 1000 is folded, the generation of crack(s) in the displaypanel 200 can be prevented, and the durability and reliability of thedisplay apparatus 1000 can be improved.

FIG. 6 is a graph illustrating an experiment to sample the number ofcracks according to the number of times the display apparatus has beenfolded. A crack sample means a sample having a crack that has resultedfrom folding.

In FIG. 6, the x-axis denotes the number of times the display apparatushas been folded and the y-axis denotes the number of generated cracksamples. In FIG. 6, a reference display apparatus and the displayapparatus 1000 (shown in FIG. 1) according to at least one embodimentare folded, and the number of crack samples according to the number oftimes the respective apparatuses are folded is illustrated.

The reference display apparatus does not include the first and secondsemi-fixed adhesive members 410 and 420.

As illustrated in FIG. 6, in the reference display apparatus, a cracksample occurs from 10,000 folding events or greater and the number ofcrack occurrences increases in proportion to the number of foldingevents. On the other hand, even after the display apparatus 1,000 isfolded 50,000 times, it can be seen that no crack samples have occurred.

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of a display apparatus according toanother embodiment. FIG. 8 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of aregion C of FIG. 7.

Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, the display apparatus 2000 is the same asthe display apparatus 1000 except that a stress relief part or stressrelief portion and auxiliary adhesive members are included instead ofthe first and second semi-fixed adhesive members 410 and 420 illustratedin FIG. 1. Hereinafter, the same components as those described above aredenoted by the same reference numerals, and descriptions thereof willnot be provided.

The stress relief part includes first and second stress relief parts orfirst and second stress relief portions 510 and 520. The first stressrelief part 510 is interposed between the first semi-fixed region 212and the first substrate 110. Also, the second stress relief part 520 isinterposed between the second semi-fixed region 222 and the secondsubstrate 120.

The first and second stress relief parts 510 and 520 have a secondflexibility. The second flexibility can be less than first flexibilityof the display panel 200. Accordingly, when the same magnitude ofexternal force is applied to the first and second stress relief parts510 and 520 and the display panel 200, the first and second stressrelief parts 510 and 520 can be deformed due to the external force to agreater extent than the deformation of the display panel 200 due to theexternal force.

The auxiliary adhesive members include a first upper auxiliary adhesivemember 611, a first lower auxiliary adhesive member 612, a second upperauxiliary adhesive member 621, and a second lower auxiliary adhesivemember 622.

The auxiliary adhesive member has adhesiveness. More specifically, theauxiliary adhesive members have a third adhesive force. The thirdadhesive force can be, for example, between about 2,000 through about5,000 gf/mm. Also, in an embodiment, the auxiliary adhesive members caninclude acryl-based adhesive materials.

The first upper auxiliary adhesive member 611 is interposed between thefirst stress relief part 510 and the first semi-fixed region 212, andattaches the first stress relief part 510 to the first semi-fixed region212. Accordingly, the first stress relief part 510 is not detached fromthe first semi-fixed region 212 but fixed thereto even when the displayapparatus 2000 is folded. Also, the first lower auxiliary adhesivemember 612 is interposed between the first stress relief part 510 andthe first substrate 110, and attaches the first stress relief part 510to the first substrate 110. Accordingly, the first stress relief part510 is not detached from the first substrate 110 but fixed thereto evenwhen the display apparatus 2000 is folded.

The second upper auxiliary adhesive member 621 is interposed between thesecond stress relief part 520 and the second semi-fixed region 222, andattaches the second stress relief part 520 to the second semi-fixedregion 222. Accordingly, the second stress relief part 520 is notdetached from the second semi-fixed region 222 but fixed thereto evenwhen the display apparatus 2000 is folded. Also, the second lowerauxiliary adhesive member 622 is interposed between the second stressrelief part 520 and the second substrate 120, and attaches the secondstress relief part 520 to the second substrate 120. Accordingly, thesecond stress relief part 520 is not detached from the second substrate120 but fixed thereto even when the display apparatus 2000 is folded.

The first and second substrates 110 and 120 respectively include groovesGR recessed toward lower surfaces of the first and second substrates 110and 120 to correspond to the first and second semi-fixed regions 212 and222.

As illustrated in FIG. 8, the first stress relief part 510 is arrangedin the groove GR. Accordingly, the first lower auxiliary adhesive member612 attaches a lower surface of the first stress relief part 510 to alower surface of the groove GR.

A first distance DS1 from the lower surface of the first substrate 110to the lower surface of the first fixing region 211 is the same as asecond distance DS2 from the lower surface of the first substrate 110 tothe lower surface of the first semi-fixed region 212.

More specifically, the first thickness Th1 may be substantially the sameas a third thickness Th3 of the first upper auxiliary adhesive member611. Also, the depth GD of the groove can be substantially the same asthe sum of a fourth thickness Th4 of the first stress relief part 510and a fifth thickness Th5 of the first lower auxiliary adhesive member612.

Accordingly, the generation of a bent portion or a concavo-convexportion, along a border of the first fixed adhesive member 310 and thefirst upper auxiliary adhesive member 611, can be prevented.

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a folded configuration ofthe display apparatus shown in FIG. 8. FIG. 10 is an enlargedcross-sectional view of a region D of FIG. 9.

Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, the display apparatus 2000 can be foldedsuch that a first outer surface 2111 of the first fixed region 211 and asecond outer surface 2211 of the second fixed region 221 face eachother. In this configuration, since the first and second non-foldedregions 210 and 220 are respectively fixed to the first and secondsubstrates 110 and 120 which are rigid, they are not folded. On theother hand, the folding region 230 is folded because it is not fixed tothe first or second substrates 110 or 120. The display apparatus 2000according to an embodiment, can relieve stresses concentrated at thefirst and second semi-fixed regions 212 and 222 when the displayapparatus 2000 is folded.

More specifically, since the second flexibility of the first and secondstress relief parts 510 and 520 is less than the first flexibility ofthe display panel 2000, the damage to the first and second semi-fixedregion 212 and 222 can be prevented when the display apparatus 2000 isfolded.

More specifically, as illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10, when the displayapparatus 2000 is folded, external force EF is generated in the firstand second semi-fixed regions 212 and 222, and the external force EFacts as a stress on the first and second semi-fixed regions 212 and 222.By means of the external force EF, the first and second stress reliefparts 510 and 520 extend in a third direction D3 perpendicular to thefirst and second substrates 110 and 120 to correspond to the externalforce. As a result, stresses generated in the first and secondsemi-fixed regions 212 and 222 can be reduced.

As a result, even if the display apparatus 2000 is folded, thegeneration of crack(s) in the display panel 200 can be prevented, andthe durability and reliability of the display apparatus 2000 can beimproved.

When a display apparatus according to at least one embodiment is folded,stress that is less than a stress limit of the display panel is appliedto a semi-fixed area of the display panel. Accordingly, the generationof crack(s) in the display panel can be prevented, and thus thereliability and durability of the display apparatus can be improved.

While the inventive technology has been described with reference topreferred embodiments thereof, it will be readily understood by thoseskilled in the art that various modifications and changes can be madethereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the inventiondefined by the appended claims. Therefore, the scope of the inventivetechnology is defined not by the detailed description but by theappended claims.

The above-disclosed subject matter is to be considered illustrative andnot restrictive, and the appended claims are intended to cover all suchmodifications, enhancements, and other embodiments, which fall withinthe true spirit and scope of the inventive technology. Thus, to themaximum extent allowed by law, the scope of the inventive technology isto be determined by the broadest permissible interpretation of thefollowing claims and their equivalents, and shall not be restricted orlimited by the foregoing detailed description.

What is claimed is:
 1. A foldable display, comprising: a display panel,comprising: a plurality of flat regions, and a folding region interposedbetween the flat regions, wherein each of the flat regions comprises: afixed region, and a semi-fixed region interposed between the fixedregion and the folding region; a plurality of substrates respectivelyattached to the flat regions; and a plurality of semi-fixed adhesivemembers respectively interposed between the semi-fixed regions and thesubstrates, wherein the semi-fixed adhesive members are configured torespectively attach/detach the semi-fixed adhesive regions to/from thesubstrates based on the degree to which the display panel is folded. 2.The foldable display of claim 1, wherein: when the display panel is inan unfolded configuration, the semi-fixed regions are respectivelyattached to the substrates by means of the semi-fixed adhesive members,and when the display panel is in a folded configuration, at least aportion of each of the semi-fixed regions is respectively detached fromthe corresponding substrate.
 3. The foldable display of claim 2, whereinwhen the display panel is in the folded configuration, each of thesemi-fixed adhesive members is attached to the corresponding substrateand is detached from the corresponding semi-fixed region.
 4. Thefoldable display of claim 2, wherein when the display panel is in thefolded configuration, each of the semi-fixed adhesive members isattached to the corresponding semi-fixed region and is detached from thecorresponding substrate.
 5. The foldable display of claim 4, whereinwhen the display panel is in the folded configuration, outer surfaces ofthe flat regions face each other.
 6. The foldable display of claim 4,wherein at least a portion of each of the semi-fixed adhesive members isdetached from the corresponding substrate when a folding angle definedby the substrates is less than an attachment angle.
 7. The foldabledisplay of claim 6, wherein when the folding angle is less than theattachment angle, a stress applied to the display panel is greater thana stress limit at which a crack is formed in the display panel.
 8. Thefoldable display of claim 1, wherein each of the semi-fixed adhesivemember is formed of a silicon-based adhesive material.
 9. A foldabledisplay, comprising: a display panel, comprising: a plurality of flatregions, and a folding region interposed between the flat regions,wherein the display panel has a first flexibility, and wherein each ofthe flat regions comprises: a fixed region, and a semi-fixed regioninterposed between the fixed region and the folding region; a pluralityof substrates respectively attached to the flat regions; and a pluralityof stress relief portions respectively interposed between the semi-fixedregions and the substrates, wherein each of the stress relief regionshas a second flexibility that is less than the first flexibility. 10.The foldable display of claim 9, wherein each of the substratescomprises a groove recessed toward a lower surface of the substrate tocorrespond to the corresponding semi-fixed region, and wherein thestress relief portion is arranged in the groove.
 11. The foldabledisplay of claim 10, wherein a first distance from the lower surface ofeach of the substrate opposite the display panel to a lower surface ofthe corresponding fixed region, is substantially equal to a distancefrom a lower surface of each of the substrates to a lower surface of thecorresponding semi-fixed region.
 12. A foldable display, comprising: adisplay panel, comprising: a plurality of flat regions, and a foldingregion interposed between the flat regions, wherein the display panelhas a first flexibility, and wherein each of the flat regions comprises:a fixed region, and a semi-fixed region interposed between the fixedregion and the folding region; a plurality of substrates respectivelyattached to the flat regions; a plurality of stress relief portionsrespectively interposed between the semi-fixed regions and thesubstrates, wherein each of the stress relief regions has a secondflexibility that is less than the first flexibility; and a plurality ofauxiliary adhesive members, each comprising: an upper auxiliary adhesivemember interposed between the corresponding stress relief portions andthe corresponding semi-fixed region, wherein the upper auxiliaryadhesive member attaches the corresponding stress relief portion to thecorresponding semi-fixed region; and a lower auxiliary adhesive memberinterposed between the corresponding stress relief portions and thecorresponding substrate, wherein the lower auxiliary adhesive memberattaches the corresponding stress relief portion to the correspondingsubstrate.
 13. The foldable display of claim 12, wherein each of thesubstrates comprises a groove recessed toward a lower surface of thesubstrate to correspond to the corresponding semi-fixed region, andwherein the stress relief portion is arranged in the groove.
 14. Thefoldable display of claim 13, wherein a first distance from the lowersurface of each of the substrate opposite the display panel to a lowersurface of the corresponding fixed region is substantially equal to adistance from a lower surface of each of the substrates to a lowersurface of the corresponding semi-fixed region.